Nova Scotia Nominee Program Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry (Pilot) Application Guide

Transcription

1 Nova Scotia Nominee Program Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry (Pilot) Application Guide Contents Introduction...2 When Not to Apply...3 Eligibility Criteria for the Principal Applicant...4 Application and Assessment Process Appendix 1: Opportunity occupations in Nova Scotia Appendix 2 Forms and Supporting Documents Checklist Appendix 3 Forms and Supporting Documents Reference Sheet Contact Information... 31

2 Introduction The Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream selects highly skilled individuals who wish to live in the Province of Nova Scotia permanently and either have a permanent full-time job offer from a Nova Scotia employer or have a reasonable ability to attach quickly to Nova Scotia s labour market. This stream is a pilot project and is subject to change. Stream changes will be communicated on our website: This guide explains how you can apply to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) through the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream to be nominated for permanent residence. The Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream is aligned with Citizenship and Immigration Canada s (CIC) Express Entry intake system. There are two application routes to Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream, either you apply directly to Nova Scotia Office of Immigration (NSOI) or you have been selected from the Express Entry pool by the NSOI. In either case the principal applicant will need to submit a complete application to NSOI. These guidelines will assist you with this application submission. All nominations under the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream occur within the Express Entry system. For further information on Express Entry, visit: The NSNP is an immigration recruitment and selection program that allows the Government of Nova Scotia to nominate to the Canadian government individuals who can meet provincial labour market and economic needs and who intend to establish themselves in Nova Scotia. A nominee, along with his or her spouse or commonlaw partner and dependents, approved under this program may become permanent residents of Canada following approval by the Canadian government. This stream is part of an economic immigration program and is not intended to be used for family reunification, protected persons, or humanitarian or compassionate reasons. The Nova Scotia Demand Express Entry Stream is only one means of applying for permanent resident status in Canada. Applicants are encouraged to explore alternative options through the Nova Scotia Nominee Program ( and through Citizenship and Immigration Canada ( Disclaimer You must meet all CIC criteria for the Express Entry pool and all supporting documents must be valid at the time of application to CIC. The NSNP and its streams are dependent upon application volumes and labour market needs. NSNP and stream criteria may change without notice. The NSNP reserves the right to close or suspend application intake for any NSNP stream at any time. Regardless of when an application was submitted, the NSNP may decline to consider applications in closed or suspended streams. If application criteria or forms are updated or if there are changes to the NSNP or its streams including closure or suspension of a stream, you will find the most current information at Applications may be assessed with the most current criteria irrespective of the date of submission of an application. By submitting an application to the NSNP, you agree and acknowledge that the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration is not obligated to assess or process any application submitted. Applications to the NSNP are treated as an expression of interest, and may be processed at the NSNP s discretion, in a manner that will best support the goals of the NSNP. This can be based on application volumes, quality of the application, labour market information, occupational supply and demand forecasting, and/or any other factors as determined by the NSNP. By submitting an application to the NSNP you agree and acknowledge the decision whether to assess or process any application, and the outcome of that assessment or processing is at the NSNP s sole discretion. You also agree and acknowledge that meeting NSNP basic eligibility requirements does not guarantee nomination or that your application will be assessed or processed. You also agree and acknowledge that a nomination from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration does not guarantee that a permanent resident visa will be issued, and that the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration is Page 2 of 31

3 not responsible for any processes or decisions of Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Fees There is no provincial application fee under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). There may be fees associated with preparation of documents to the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream such as with credentials, language testing or translations. You must, however, pay all the required Government of Canada immigration fees when you submit your file to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). When Not to Apply Do Not Apply for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream if you are: not a citizen of or hold a passport or other documentation permitting you to legally reside in your current country of residence; intending to work in an occupation that is a National Occupational Classification (NOC) level C or D; a grand-parent, parent, spouse, or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada, an applicant under humanitarian and compassionate grounds, a refugee claimant or a failed refugee claimant; in Canada illegally, under a removal order, or are prohibited from entering or being in Canada; not legally present in your country of residence; an international student who is currently studying at a Canadian post-secondary institution; an international graduate who has studied in Canada, whose studies have been sponsored by an agency or government and who is contractually obligated to return to their country of origin; on a valid federal post-graduation work permit whose occupation falls under NOC skill level C or D; the spouse of an international student at a Canadian post-secondary institution who is not in his/her last academic year of studies; an individual with unresolved custody or child support disputes affecting any dependent; in a sales position that is based solely on commission for compensation; a seasonal, part-time or casual worker; an individual whose job offer is not based in Nova Scotia; a helper and/or labourer in construction, agriculture or primary resources sectors; an individual in Canada who is in the Caregiver Program; intending to start a business and/or be self-employed in Nova Scotia; a passive investor (individuals who intend to invest in a Nova Scotia business with very limited or no involvement in the day-to-day management of the business); unable to provide proof of required amount of funds (see section on Minimum Funds Requirement). Page 3 of 31

4 Eligibility Criteria for the Principal Applicant There are two categories under the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream: Category 1: Arranged employment in Nova Scotia You have a permanent full-time job offer (in NOC 2011 Skill Type 0, Skill Level A or B) from a Nova Scotia employer. The job offer must meet the arranged employment requirements described in this guide. Category 2: Paid Work Experience in an Opportunity Occupation You have at least one year of continuous full-time (or 1,560 hours or more) or an equal amount in part-time paid work experience in the last 10 years in one of the opportunity occupations listed in Appendix 1. Once you have determined that you meet the eligibility criteria in one of the two categories, you must also meet all minimum requirements for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream, obtain sufficient points under the selection factors, and meet the Minimum Funds requirement. Step 1: Meet Minimum Requirements In order to be eligible for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream, you need to meet the following three minimum requirements. If you do not meet these requirements, do not apply at this time. Foreign diploma, certificate or credential and its educational credential equivalency assessment by a designated body or Canadian educational credential. You will require 1 year of full-time 1 (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience (in Canada or international) in the last 10 years in NOC 2011 Skill Type 0, Skill Level A or B: The minimum language proficiency threshold currently CLB 7 in all 4 language areas abilities (reading, writing, listening and speaking) in either English or French demonstrated by language test results from a designated agency IELTS (General Training Test only); CELPIP (General test only); or TEF. (see factor 2 for more information). Note: With all three of these criteria, documentation will also need to be valid at the time of application of permanent residence to CIC. 1. Full-time means at least 30 hours of paid work in one week. One year of full-time work is at least 1,560 hours. One year equivalent part-time work is at least 1,560 hours, but not at a 30 hours/week rate (e.g., 15 hours/week in one part-time job over a period of two years). Work experience must include work that is paid or where commission is earned. Page 4 of 31

5 Step 2: Obtain sufficient points under the selection factors If you do not fall under any of the When Not to Apply categories, and you have the three minimum requirements for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream, you may proceed to determine if you score 67 points or more out of 100 from the following six selection factors. The six selection factors are: Selection factor Factor 1: Education Factor 2: Ability in English and/or French Factor 3: Work experience Factor 4: Age Factor 5: Arranged employment in Nova Scotia Factor 6: Adaptability Total Pass mark: Points Maximum 25 points Maximum 28 points Maximum 15 points Maximum 12 points Maximum 10 points Maximum 10 points Maximum 100 points 67 Points If you are ineligible within factors 1 to 4 or have a score less than 67 points you do not qualify for Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream. Do not apply at this time. Factor 1: Education (maximum of 25 points) You must have a completed Canadian secondary or post-secondary educational credential OR a completed foreign educational credential from a recognized institution or authority AND an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report issued by an organization designated by CIC. If you do not submit this assessment when you apply, your application is not complete. We will not process it and will send it back to you. An ECA is used to verify that your foreign degree, diploma, certificate (or other proof of your credential) is valid and equal to a completed credential in Canada. The ECA report will also indicate the authenticity of your foreign educational credential(s). When you apply with a foreign educational credential, an ECA report must: Be included with your application along with proof of your foreign credential Be issued on or after the date the organization was designated by CIC Must meet CIC format and content requirements Not be more than five years old on the date that NSOI receives your application and at application for permanent residence to CIC Show your credential is equal to a completed Canadian one For more information and a list of organizations designated by CIC, visit: Submit a copy of the ECA report with your application to NSOI along with proof of your completed foreign educational credential(s) (e.g., copies of your diplomas/degrees, transcripts). Do not request that your ECA report be sent directly to NSOI. Keep the original ECA report for CIC and keep a copy of your ECA report for your records and future use. Page 5 of 31

6 Using your Educational Credentials and ECA Report You may receive points for your education based on your highest completed Canadian educational credential(s) or the results of your ECA report indicating the equivalency of your completed foreign educational credential(s) to completed Canadian educational credential(s): Education Points Doctoral (PhD) level 25 University-level credential at the Master s level OR an entry-to-practice professional 23 degree. Note: CIC only accepts as an entry-to-practice professional degree, those degrees issued in relation to an occupation listed at NOC Skill level A and for which licensing by a provincial regulatory body is required, in one of the following fields of study: Medicine, Veterinary Medicine; Dentistry; Podiatry; Optometry; Law; Chiropractic Medicine; and Pharmacy. Two or more post-secondary program credentials AND at least one of these 22 credentials is for the completion of a post-secondary program of three years or longer Post-secondary program credential of three years or longer 21 Two-year post-secondary program credential 19 One-year post-secondary program credential 15 Secondary school education credential (also called high school) 5 Less than secondary school Ineligible Before you apply, confirm that the outcome on your ECA report matches one of the assessment outcomes identified in the table at Factor 2: Ability in English and/or French (maximum of 28 points) You will be awarded up to 28 points for your proficiency in English and/or French. You will receive points based on your ability to: listen, speak, read, and write. You must demonstrate that you meet the minimum level of language proficiency set by the NSOI by providing proof of your proficiency in all four language abilities in English or French whichever language you identify in your application will be your first official language in Canada. If you wish to be awarded points for your proficiency in both official languages, you must include the results of your official English and French language proficiency tests with your application to NSOI. When you submit your application to NSOI, you must include results of one of the following language tests: Page 6 of 31

7 English CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (General test only) IELTS: International English Language Testing System (General Training test only) French TEF: Test d évaluation de français We will not process your application if you do not include language test results for either English or French that show you meet the required level. Language test results must not be more than 2 years old at the time of receipt at NSOI and at application for permanent residence to CIC. Other written evidence will not be accepted. For the purpose of determining your language proficiency, your test results will be matched to the Canadian Language Benchmarks/Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (CLB/NCLC). To use your test results to determine your CLB level, visit: Calculate your language points You must meet the minimum level of CLB 7 (for your first official language in all four language areas). To get points for your second official language, you must meet the minimum level of CLB 5 (in all four language areas). First official Points language Speaking Listening Reading Writing CLB level 9 or higher CLB level CLB level Below CLB 7 Not eligible to apply Note: You can only get four points in total for basic-level skills in your second official language, and only if you have a score of at least CLB 5 in each of the four language abilities. Second official language Points At least CLB 5 in all of the four abilities 4 CLB 4 or less in any of the four abilities 0 Proof of language proficiency If you do not submit the results of your official language proficiency test indicating that you meet the required proficiency level with your application to the NSOI, your application will not be processed and will be returned to you as incomplete. Do not request that your language test result (CELPIP General, IELTS General Training, or TEF) be sent directly to NSOI. Submit a copy of your language proficiency test results with your complete application to NSOI. Page 7 of 31

8 Keep the original of your language proficiency test results for your records and future use. You may use these results in the future if you choose to submit another application as long as they are not more than two years old at the time your application is received. You may also use these test results as evidence of your language proficiency if your application is successful and you later decide to apply for citizenship. Factor 3: Work experience (maximum of 15 points) Your work experience in Canada or international must be: at least one year (1,560 hours), full-time or an equal amount in part-time paid work (volunteer work and unpaid internships do not count) in the same occupation, and within the last 10 years before your application to NSOI and at application for permanent residence to CIC, and in NOC 2011 Skill Type 0, Skill Level A or B (if no arranged employment, paid work experience must be one of the opportunity occupations listed in Appendix 1) The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a system used to classify jobs in the Canadian economy. It describes duties, skills and work setting for different jobs. NSOI uses the 2011 edition of the NOC to assess Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry applications. In your application to NSOI you will need to demonstrate that you: performed the actions described in the lead statements for the occupation as set out in the occupational description of the NOC 2011, and performed a substantial number of the main duties, including all of the essential duties, of the occupation as set out in the occupational description of NOC 2011 To help you with your search, go to the following website and insert the NOC code under quick search: Experience Points Less than 1 year Ineligible 1 year years years 13 6 or more 15 Page 8 of 31

9 Factor 4: Age (maximum of 12 points) You will receive points for your age on the date that we receive your complete application to NSOI and on application for permanent residence to CIC. Age Points Under 18 years of age Ineligible years of age years of age years of age years of age 9 39 years of age 8 40 years of age 7 41 years of age 6 42 years of age 5 43 years of age 4 44 years of age 3 45 years of age 2 46 years of age 1 47 years of age or older 0 Factor 5: Arranged employment in Nova Scotia (maximum of 10 points) You will receive points if you have a valid offer of permanent employment from a Nova Scotia employer. A valid offer of employment has to be for permanent full-time work in Nova Scotia, and must be in an occupation in Skill Type 0, Skill Level A or B of NOC The job must: have compensation in the form of salary and benefits package that meets Provincial employment standards and prevailing wage rates (see be a position which has a shortage of qualified permanent residents or Canadian citizens to fill the position, and not contravene any existing bargaining unit agreements or be in any employment disputes Estimate how many points you will receive for arranged employment: If And Points You currently work in Canada on a temporary work permit. Your work permit is valid both when you apply and when the visa is issued (or you are authorized to work in Canada without a work permit when your visa is issued). 10 and CIC issued your work permit based on a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Service Canada. Your employer would have applied for the LMIA, which you then had to attach to your application. Page 9 of 31

10 and You are working for an employer named on your work permit who has made a permanent job offer based on you being accepted as a skilled worker. You currently work in Canada in a job that is exempt from the LMIA requirement under: an international agreement (such as, the North America Free Trade Agreement) or a federal-provincial agreement. Your work permit is valid both when you apply and when the visa is issued (or you are authorized to work in Canada without a permit when your visa is issued). and Your current employer has made a permanent job offer based on you being accepted as a skilled worker. 10 You currently do not: OR have a work permit, or plan to work in Canada before you get a permanent resident visa. You are currently working in Canada and a different employer has offered to give you a permanent full-time job. OR You are currently working in Canada in a job that is exempt from a Labour Market Impact Assessment, but not under an international or federal-provincial agreement. An employer has made you a permanent job offer based on you being accepted as a skilled worker. and The employer has a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment from Service Canada. 10 A person can get arranged employment points without a new LMIA. The requirements in this case are: o The applicant is currently working in Canada on a work permit that was issued based on a positive Service Canada LMIA with respect to employment in an occupation listed in Skill Type 0, Skill Level A or B of the NOC; o the work permit is valid at the time the application for permanent residence is made; o the applicant is currently working for an employer specified on the work permit; and o the current employer has made an offer to employ the applicant on a full-time, non-seasonal, indeterminate basis in a NOC 2011 Skill Type 0, Skill Level A or B occupation in Nova Scotia once a permanent resident visa, if any, is issued. Note: You cannot get a Labour Market Impact Assessment from Service Canada. Your employer must do this for you. Page 10 of 31

11 Service Canada will only confirm permanent job offers for occupations listed in Skill Type 0 or Skill Level A or B of the NOC. An Officer at NSOI must be satisfied that you are capable of performing the job offered to you. If the occupation is regulated in Nova Scotia, the Officer must also be satisfied that you can be expected to qualify for licensing/certification when in Nova Scotia. Factor 6: Adaptability (maximum of 10 points) You will receive points if you can show that you or your spouse/common-law partner have experience and abilities that will help you adapt to living in Nova Scotia. Even if you qualify for points under several criteria, you can only receive a maximum of 10 points for adaptability. You cannot claim points for a spouse who is a permanent resident living in Canada or a Canadian citizen. You must provide proof that you or, if applicable, your spouse/common-law partner meet adaptability criteria in order to obtain points. Refer to the Document Checklist for more information. English is the predominant language spoken in Nova Scotia, but the province is also home to a large French-speaking community. Nova Scotia s French-Language Services Act provides for the delivery of French language services by designated departments, offices and agencies of Government, however, private sector services are not required to provide French language delivery. This should be taken into account when considering adaptability into a community. Adaptability A. Arranged employment (principal applicant only) You earned points under Factor 5: Arranged Employment. B. Your previous study in Nova Scotia You completed at least two academic years of full-time study (in a program of at least two years in duration) at a secondary or post-secondary school in Nova Scotia. Full-time study means at least 15 hours of classes per week, and you must have remained in good academic standing (as defined by the school) during the period of full-time study in Nova Scotia. C. Your accompanying spouse or common-law partner s previous study in Nova Scotia Your accompanying spouse or common-law partner completed at least two academic years of full-time study (in a program of at least two years in duration) at a secondary or postsecondary school in Nova Scotia. Full-time study means at least 15 hours of classes per week, and your accompanying spouse or common-law partner must have remained in good academic standing (as defined by the school) during the period of full-time study in Nova Scotia. D. Your previous work in Nova Scotia You completed a minimum of one year of authorized, full-time work in Nova Scotia in an occupation in Skill Type 0, Skill Level A or B of NOC E. Your accompanying spouse or common-law partner s previous work in Nova Scotia Your accompanying spouse or common-law partner completed a minimum of one year of authorized, full-time work in Nova Scotia. Points Page 11 of 31

12 Adaptability F. Relatives in Nova Scotia You or, if applicable, your accompanying spouse or common-law partner have a relative, i.e., parent, grandparent, brother/sister, aunt/uncle or niece/nephew, who is 18 years of age or older as of the date we receive your application, and who is a Canadian citizen of permanent resident residing in Nova Scotia. G. Your accompanying spouse or common-law partner s level of language proficiency Your accompanying spouse or common-law partner s level of language proficiency in either English or French is at the CLB 4 level or higher in all four language abilities (speaking, listening, reading and writing). To receive points for your spouse or common-law partner s language proficiency, you must submit a copy of the language test results from a designated testing agency with your application. Your spouse or common-law partner s language test results must not be more than two years old on the date that we receive your application and application for permanent residence to CIC. Points 5 5 Interview If required, you may have to attend an in-person interview in Nova Scotia. You will be notified if such an interview is required. Page 12 of 31

13 Step 3: Minimum Funds Requirement [NOVA SCOTIA DEMAND: EXPRESS ENTRY STREAM] June 2, 2015 You must show that you have a sufficient amount of funds to successfully establish yourself and your family in Nova Scotia and to pay your immigration costs and travel expenses (if applicable) at the time of application to NSOI and your application for permanent residency to CIC (as well as at Express Entry profile submission stage). The amount of money you need to support your family is determined by the size of your family, as shown at the table at the following link: This table was developed for the Federal Skilled Worker program, but the amounts also apply to the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream. The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration may not approve an application if it appears likely that your family income (based on your job offer and any spousal income) will be below Statistics Canada s applicable Low-Income Cut- Off at Table 3 The funds must be in your name or in the name of your accompanying spouse. These funds must be unencumbered by debts or obligations (i.e., not real estate), transferable and available to you. These funds cannot be borrowed. These funds could be in the form of: Cash Documents that show property or capital payable to you (such as stocks, bonds, debentures, treasury bills, etc.) or Documents that guarantee payment of a set amount of money, which are payable to you (such as bankers drafts, cheques, travellers cheques or money orders) Criteria and Requirements for the Employer (if applicable, for arranged employment) Criteria Registration status Operational status Business Practices Eligibility Requirements The business must have a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia. 2 NSOI accepts applications from workers with employers in the public sector and not-for-profit organizations with a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia. A not-for-profit organization must be registered under the Societies Act and demonstrate financial ability and stability to support the position on a long-term basis. The employer s business must have been in operation in Nova Scotia, under current management, for at least two years. Employer must have a history of good workplace and business practices, and must be compliant with all applicable laws and regulations. Most employers who wish to recruit and hire foreign workers for employment in Nova Scotia must obtain a Foreign Worker Employer Registration Certificate from Labour Standards. (see on.asp) 2 Permanent establishment has the meaning contained in the Income Tax Act, Canada. Page 13 of 31

14 Employment offer Recruitment efforts The employer must make a full-time, permanent job 3 offer for a job for a NOC 2011 Skill Type 0, Skill Level A or B. The job, located in Nova Scotia, must: have compensation in the form of salary and benefits package that meets Provincial employment standards and prevailing wage rates (see be a position which has a shortage of qualified permanent residents or Canadian citizens to fill the position, not contravene any existing bargaining unit agreements, labour agreements/standards or be in any employment disputes. The employer needs to satisfactorily demonstrate recruitment efforts to fill the position with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Current job advertisement, Service Canada job bank posting(s), current Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), and industry reports on labour shortages can serve as proof. Support and Retention Plan When reviewing an application, the NSOI will consider the employer s support to the immigrant employee. Supports may consist of financial or non-financial assistance such as covering or contributing to the immigration fees, accommodation/housing, and referrals to settlement services agencies or language classes. Examples of employer retention activities include settlement assistance, bonuses or incentives, career training plans, benefits packages and advancement opportunities. Workplace and Business Practices The employer s business must demonstrate good workplace and business practices, including compliance with employment, immigration, health and safety standards and regulations. NSOI prohibits employers from making deductions from wages or salaries for business costs such as bringing a foreign worker to Canada. Employment agencies and similar placement firms cannot act as an employer under the NSNP unless they are establishing a full-time permanent employer-employee relationship with the applicant themselves. Deviation or violation of these obligations will result in the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration s refusal to accept NSNP applications by workers employed with such employers. 3 A permanent job has no pre-determined end date; it is a long-term job offer. Full-time employment means that the employee is expected to work year round and, on average, at least 30 hours a week. Page 14 of 31

15 Application and Assessment Process If you meet all the eligibility criteria, you can prepare and submit a complete application package to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). After submitting your application package, you must notify NSOI of any changes in your status or eligibility criteria for this stream. Note: any misrepresentation in your application package, no matter how small, is grounds for refusal of your application. Step 1: Prepare and Submit your Nova Scotia Nominee Program Application Package APPLICATIONS WHICH DO NOT FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE RETURNED WITHOUT ASSESSMENT. You must gather and prepare all your application package materials. Appendix 2: Forms and Supporting Documents Checklist and Appendix 3: Forms and Supporting Documents Reference Sheet are developed to assist you in preparing your NSNP application. Read them and this guide carefully and thoroughly. Eligible family members included in the application are called dependents and include: Spouse (legal marriage), Common-law partnership 4 of at least one year, and Dependent children: Daughters and sons, including adopted children, who: o are under the age of 19 and do not have a spouse or common-law partner; o are 19 years of age or older and have depended substantially on the financial support of the parent since before the age of 19 and are unable to be financially self-supporting due to a physical or mental condition Supporting Documents o Where the documents are not in English or in French, the principal applicant must submit a photocopy of the original document and a photocopy of the certified translation. Note: NSOI will only accept translations prepared by certified translators. Translators must be certified by a regulatory body and cannot be a family member of the applicant or spouse, or common-law partner, or work for a paid consultant or representative who is preparing the application. The applicant must also supply proof from the translator describing their translation ability or certification. Use of a Representative o If you are using a paid immigration representative to conduct business on your behalf with the Province of Nova Scotia, that individual must be either: An immigration consultant who is a member in good standing with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) (visit OR 4 You are a common-law partner either of the opposite sex or same sex if you have been living together in a conjugal relationship for at least one year in a continuous, non-interrupted 12-month period. If you have maintained a conjugal relationship for at least one year but have been prevented from living together or marrying, you may be considered common-law after providing evidence there was a satisfactory reason you could not live together. In either case, you will need to provide a Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union [IMM 5409] available at Page 15 of 31

16 [NOVA SCOTIA DEMAND: EXPRESS ENTRY STREAM] June 2, 2015 A lawyer or paralegal who is a member in good standing of a Canadian Law Society or a student-at-law under the supervision of a recognized lawyer (visit flsc.ca/about-us/ourmembers-canadas-law-societies);or A notary public who is a member in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec or a student-at-law under their supervision (visit WARNING: Payment to an individual who is not regulated as above offers no legal opportunity for complaint and is strongly discouraged by this office. The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration will not deal with non-regulated representatives. Preparing your Applications o When preparing your application package DO NOT: send double-sided copies, bind your application or put the pages in a ring binder, enclose individual pages in plastic, envelopes or folders, tie, sew, bolt, or glue the pages together, use multiple staples on a page, send multiple copies of identical documents. o When preparing your application package for submission to NSOI include: original NSNP forms and documents copies of supporting documents o Photocopy all your completed forms and supporting documents and keep these copies for your records. Organize your completed forms and supporting documents according to Appendix 2: Forms and Supporting Documents Checklist. It is your responsibility to submit all requested documents. If documents are missing, not signed, not translated by a certified translator, or not clear, your application may not be assessed. Mail or drop off your complete application package to the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration: Nova Scotia Office of Immigration 1741 Brunswick St., Suite 110A Halifax, Nova Scotia CANADA B3J 2Y3 Page 16 of 31

17 Step 2: Nova Scotia Office of Immigration Assesses your Application A. Eligibility and completion check After your application is received and subject to application volumes, NSOI will review your application to ensure that it is complete and meets eligibility criteria before it is accepted for assessment. If your application is not complete or if you do not meet basic eligibility requirements, your application may be returned. B. Assessment NSOI will conduct a full review and evaluation of the complete application, subject to application volumes and the possible circumstances set out in this Guide under Disclaimer. The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration reserves the right to request an interview with the applicant. The processing time for a completed application eligible for consideration can take three months or more depending on the time required for the verification of documents included in the application and on the volume of applications received. Nomination under the NSNP is at the sole discretion of NSOI. C. Decision NSOI will communicate the decision in writing to you or your representative via . This decision will be either that you have been nominated or that you have been refused. i. Nomination NSOI will confirm nomination within Citizenship and Immigration Canada s Express Entry system. You will need to accept the nomination within Express Entry system. ii. Refusal If your application is being considered for refusal, you or your representative will receive a letter of intent to refuse from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration. You have 10 business days to submit additional information to be considered by the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration.* After 10 business days the file will be re-assessed, including any new information submitted, and a final decision made. This decision will be sent in writing to you or your representative. There is no appeal process. *In extenuating circumstances (hospitalization or death in family), extensions may be given, on a case by case basis. Note: Officers at NSOI cannot divulge information over the phone about whether or not your application has been nominated, refused or its status. You must wait to receive written correspondence from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration. Page 17 of 31

18 Step 3: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Express Entry System A. If you are not already registered in the Express Entry System and NSOI would like to nominate you, you will receive an from NSOI asking you to apply to register within Citizenship and Immigration Canada s Express Entry system. Within 10 days of NSOI s , you will need to complete an online Express Entry profile and your unique identifier number to nsnp@novascotia.ca. NSOI will then nominate you in the Express Entry system and you will need to accept the nomination within the Express Entry system. If you are already in the Express Entry pool and following assessment NSOI would like to nominate you, NSOI will nominate you in the Express Entry system and you will need to accept the nomination within the Express Entry system. B. Invitation to Apply for permanent residence by CIC Following acceptance of the nomination with the Express Entry system, you will receive an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence by CIC. You will have 60 days to submit an electronic application for permanent residence. You will need to upload your application and supporting documents via your MyCIC account. You, your spouse, common-law partner and dependents must meet requirements for medical, security and criminal admissibility to CIC s satisfaction. In some cases, you may be asked to go for an interview. For further information on applications through Express Entry, see the following website: C. Issuance of permanent resident visa If approved by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, you, your spouse and dependents will be issued a Confirmation of Permanent Residence. D. Provide contact information to Nova Scotia Office of Immigration When you are granted permanent residence, you must contact the NSOI within 30 days of your arrival in Nova Scotia. You must provide NSOI with a copy of the Confirmation of Permanent Residence, a copy of your passport and your Nova Scotia contact information such as current address, phone number(s) and . Note: Incorrectly completed application forms will slow processing time for your application at both the NSNP and CIC steps and may result in your application being returned or refused. You must meet all CIC criteria for the Express Entry pool and all supporting documents must be valid at the time of application to CIC. Citizenship and Immigration Canada makes the final decision for the granting of permanent resident visas after ensuring that all legislative requirements are met, including medical, criminality and security checks. A nomination by the Province of Nova Scotia does not guarantee that a permanent resident visa will be issued. The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration may withdraw your nomination at any time prior to the issuance of the permanent resident visa and prior to landing in Canada if: - You no longer meet minimum eligibility requirements of the NSNP; - The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration is advised by the Canadian visa office that any information provided in your application for permanent residency is false or fraudulent; or - Citizenship and Immigration Canada finds that you or a dependent is inadmissible as a result of medical, criminality, security checks or having an invalid passport. Page 18 of 31

19 Appendix 1: Opportunity occupations in Nova Scotia The following occupation list represents professions where there may be employment opportunities in Nova Scotia. The occupations are classified with National Occupational Classification 2011 (NOC). The NOC helps determine whether a job meets the skill levels established for skilled and semi-skilled occupations, and whether the candidate s qualifications and experience match the requirements of the job. The NOC Matrix provides an overview of the entire occupational classification structure based on skill levels and skill types. For more information visit: In your application to NSOI you will need to demonstrate that you: performed the actions described in the lead statements for the occupation as set out in the occupational description of the NOC 2011, and performed a substantial number of the main duties, including all of the essential duties, of the occupation as set out in the occupational description of NOC 2011 NSOI reserves both the right to consider only certain types of jobs and occupations for nomination and to limit those occupations that are eligible for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream or to target specific occupations, groups of occupations, occupations in specific industries or occupations in specific sectors of the economy. The NSOI reserves the right to modify this occupation list at its discretion, at any time. Occupation title NOC Skill 1 Financial Auditors and Accountants 1111 A 2 Financial and Investment Analysts 1112 A 3 Human Resources Professionals 1121 A 4 Purchasing Agents and Officers 1225 B 5 Geoscientists and Oceanographers 2113 A 6 Civil Engineers 2131 A 7 Mechanical Engineers 2132 A 8 Electrical and Electronic Engineers 2133 A 9 Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers 2141 A 10 Computer Engineers 2147 A 11 Information Systems Analysts and Consultants 2171 A 12 Database Analysts and Data Administrators 2172 A 13 Software Engineers 2173 A 14 Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers 2174 A 15 Web Designers and Developers 2175 A 16 Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians 2231 B 17 Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians 2232 B 18 Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians 2241 B 19 Drafting Technologists and Technicians 2253 B 20 Engineering Inspectors and Regulatory Officers 2262 B 21 User Support Technicians 2282 B 22 Registered Nurses 3012 A 23 Physiotherapists 3142 A 24 Occupational Therapists 3143 A 25 Medical Laboratory Technologists 3211 B Page 19 of 31

20 26 Licensed Practical Nurses 3233 B 27 Psychologists 4151 A 28 Family, Marriage and Other Related Counsellors 4153 A 29 Financial Sales Representatives 6235 B If your occupation falls within this list, research it before applying to the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream. One of the challenges Canadian employers face when hiring international candidates is that standards for training, education, and certifications can be different from place to place. Some professions, like those in the health care industry for example, are regulated. This means certain qualifications or training certifications are required for employment. You may already have the training needed, but if it was gained outside of Nova Scotia it may not be fully recognized. Employers and regulatory bodies will need to determine the Nova Scotia equivalent to help them decide what positions you qualify for. This will also help you decide if there are any additional training or upgrades you may need. Even unregulated professions have generally-accepted credentials. Despite extensive training, you may need further education/training to upgrade or verify that your abilities meet Nova Scotia standards. To help you with your search, go to the following website and insert the NOC code under quick search: For contact information on professional organizations in Nova Scotia, go to the following website (though note this website is using NOC 2006): The NSOI is not responsible for finding employment or providing assistance in finding employment to any applicant or Nominee. Page 20 of 31

21 Appendix 2 Forms and Supporting Documents Checklist A detailed explanation of all the forms and supporting documents can be found in Appendix 3: Forms and Supporting Documents Reference Sheet. Consult Appendix 3 to ensure you have included all required information/documentation. APPLICATIONS WHICH DO NOT FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE RETURNED WITHOUT ASSESSMENT. If copies are requested, do not send originals as they will be returned to you without being assessed. Review and organize your completed forms and supporting documents in the order below before submitting your application. When preparing your application package DO NOT: send double-sided copies bind you application or put the pages in ring binder enclose individual pages in plastic, envelopes or folders tie, sew, bolt, or glue the pages together use multiple staples on a page send multiple copies of identical documents Nova Scotia Nominee Program Forms provide ORIGINALS 1 Colour passport sized photograph For the principal applicant and each dependent NSNP 100 Application Form NSNP 200 Employer Form (if applicable, for arranged employment) NSNP 50 Use of a Representative (if applicable) For the principal applicant For the employer who has made the permanent job offer For the principal applicant and dependents over the age of 18. NSNP 60 Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (if applicable) For the principal applicant and dependents over the age of 18. Forms IMM 5604 and IMM 5409 are available at Separation Declaration for Minors Travelling to Canada (if applicable) [IMM 5604] Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (if applicable) [IMM 5409] For the non-accompanying parent/guardian, former spouse or former common-law partner and witnessed by a notary public For the principal applicant and spouse (only if the latter is a co-signer on the application), and signed by a commissioner of oaths. Page 21 of 31

22 Supporting Documents provide COPIES ONLY Valid passports and/or travel documents Proof of legal status in your country of residence if other than your country of nationality (e.g., work permit) Birth certificates identifying both parents Marriage certificate (if applicable) Divorce and/or annulment certificate (if applicable) Custody maintenance documents and permission for the child to come to Canada (if applicable) to accompany form IMM 5604 Declaration from nonaccompanying parent/guardian for minors travelling to Canada Adoption papers (if applicable) Death certificate for former spouse (if applicable) Correspondence on previous immigration applications to Canada (if applicable) Education certifications received (e.g., degrees, diplomas or certificates) Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from CIC s designated agencies for foreign credentials Proof of English or French language ability Supporting employment history and documents Documentation to show work experience match with NOC 2011 Certification with licensing bodies, regulatory agencies (if applicable) Resume / Curriculum Vitae Financial information proof of settlement supports and transferable funds (e.g., bank statements, investments portfolio) Close relative in Nova Scotia (if applicable), include proof of status, proof of relationship and proof of residency For the principal applicant and dependents For the principal applicant and dependents For the principal applicant and dependents For the principal applicant and spouse For the principal applicant and spouse For the principal applicant and spouse For the principal applicant and spouse For the principal applicant and spouse For the principal applicant and dependents For the principal applicant and spouse (if applicable) For the principal applicant For the principal applicant and spouse (if applicable) For the principal applicant and spouse (if applicable) For the principal applicant For the principal applicant For the principal applicant For the principal applicant and dependents For the principal applicant and spouse (if applicable) Page 22 of 31